Kuiper Kathleen (ed.) The Culture of India

New York: Britannica Educational Publishing / Rosen Educational Services, 2011. — 344 p.The culture of India has been shaped not only by its long history, unique geography and diverse demography, but also by its ancient heritages, which were formed during the Indus Valley Civilization and evolved further during the Vedic age, rise and decline of Buddhism, the Golden age, invasions from Central Asia, European colonization and the Indian independence movement.
India's languages, religions, dance, music, architecture and customs differ from place to place within the country, but nevertheless possess a commonality. The culture of India is an amalgamation of these diverse sub-cultures spread all over the Indian subcontinent and traditions that are several millennia old.This detailed series explores all aspects of this vibrant subcontinent. With accounts of India’s most ancient civilizations and the individuals and ideas that have shaped the country since then, readers are introduced to a place that is constantly evolving and accommodating new ways of thinking. The images included with the text allow readers to experience India’s multi-layered history and witness the rise from its fabled empires to its colonial past to its current place as a formidable player on the world stage.Glossary, Index, Further Reading, Introductory and Epilogue Material, Maps, Sidebars.